Germanfest is back on Saturday, October 4 from 12:00 – 5:00 PM at Caras Park. Celebrate our sister city, Neckargemünd, Germany with live music, great food, cold beer, and games for the whole family!
Hosted by Arts Missoula and Bayern Brewing, Germanfest honors Missoula’s Sister City relationship with Neckargemünd, Germany—founded in 1993 with a formal Pledge of Friendship between the cities.
NEW THIS YEAR: Official Steinholding Competition!
We’re thrilled to partner with the U.S. Steinholding Association to host an official qualifying event for the Montana State Steinholding Championship. We’re looking for 50 competitors—men’s and women’s brackets—to test their strength and stamina in this traditional beer-lifting challenge! Compete for prizes and a spot in the state finals. No experience is necessary! Sign up on our website or at the event.
The winners from each Qualifying Venue will be invited to move on to the State Finals where the toughest, most determined men’s and women’s competitors will be crowned the 2025 State Champions and win eternal glory! Our top men’s and womans time qualifiy for the State Championship at The Great Northwest Oktoberfest in Whitefish, MT, on Saturday October 11th, 2025! Not only that, for the first time EVER, the State Champions will also earn the opportunity to represent their state at the inaugural U.S. Steinholding Association National Championship Finals Event.
Enjoy performances by ocTUBAfest and Accordion to Mike, the tapping of the keg, traditional brats and potato salad, soft pretzels from Bayern Brewing, plus chocolate and ice cream!
Additional food and drink vendors include: Big Dipper Ice Cream, Pattie Wagon, Servin’ Thyme, Louie’s Lemonade, and Bamboo Bar.
Germanfest is packed with playful activities for everyone! Try your hand at axe throwing, the outrageous fish slapping, or giant beer pong—hosted by the UM Hockey Team.
Bringing the kids? Stop by the Kindertisch (children’s table) making station for hands-on crafts inspired by German traditions.
Dress up in your Dirndl or Lederhosen, dance, eat, drink, and celebrate with your community. Germanfest is free and open to all. We can’t wait to see you there!
